Leading Workgroups That Work: Equipping Professionals to Chair, Facilitate, and Drive Results Course

Module 1: Foundations of Effective Workgroups and Meeting Preparation

• Review course expectations, structure, and learning goals through the welcome and course overview.
• Identify the characteristics of an effective workgroup and recognize how workgroup dynamics may differ in virtual environments.
• Examine team performance and group dynamics through an overview of the Team Performance Model and related debrief activities.
• Differentiate between the roles and responsibilities of the facilitator and the chair and understand how they work together to support group effectiveness.
• Prepare for workgroup meetings by reviewing simulation scenarios and practicing how to prepare for and meet with the convener.

Module 2: Communication Skills, Norm Setting, and Decision Making

• Reflect on initial learning and prepare for continued application through check-in, preparation, and day one reflections.
• Apply foundational language and communication skills by exploring communication styles, neuroscience, and common triggers that influence group interactions.
• Practice leading introductions and establishing productive group norms through preparation, simulation, and debrief of a workgroup meeting.
• Use communication techniques that move conversations forward, including reframing strategies that support clarity and progress.
• Apply charting best practices, including techniques for charting effectively in virtual environments.
• Practice guiding workgroup decision making and developing a clear statement of purpose through simulation and debrief.
• Conclude the day with reflection, closing discussion, and facilitator debrief.